Abstract
PURPOSE: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major public health concern. Intravenous (IV) iron supplementation serves as an effective alternative when oral iron therapy fails or is not tolerated. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and impact on quality of life of ferric carboxymaltose in the treatment of IDA. METHODS: In this prospective observational study conducted between June 2023 and February 2025, a total of 528 patients with IDA-unresponsive or intolerant to oral iron-received IV ferric carboxymaltose. Doses were calculated using the Ganzoni formula. Hematological parameters and quality of life were assessed pre- and 30 days post-treatment using laboratory tests and the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Adverse events were recorded during a 30-day follow-up. RESULTS: The mean age was 41.56 ± 12.33 years, with 92.4% female participants. Hemoglobin increased from 9.17 ± 1.36 to 13.12 ± 0.82 g/dL, and ferritin exhibited a substantial rise from 6.23 ± 4.38 to 178.91 ± 123.99 ng/mL (both p < 0.001). Mild side effects occurred in 11.36% of cases; no serious adverse events were observed. Significant improvements were recorded in physical and psychological domains of quality of life (p < 0.001). Hypophosphatemia was more frequent in patients receiving > 1750 mg of iron and with pre-treatment phosphorus levels < 3.05 mg/dL. CONCLUSION: IV ferric carboxymaltose is a safe and effective therapy for IDA, offering rapid hematological recovery and improved quality of life. However, hypophosphatemia remains a concern at higher doses, warranting close monitoring and further investigation.